On November 25, 2023, we hosted an insightful and engaging webinar on “Nigerian Pharmacists and the Code of Professional Ethics: Matters Arising.” With 231 participants in attendance, the discussion brought together key experts in the pharmaceutical industry, ethics, and media to examine pressing ethical issues facing Nigerian pharmacists today.
A Power-Packed Panel
Our distinguished panelists included:
- Angela O. Kanu, Ph.D., RPh – Member, NAPPSA
- Dr. Egbuna C. Udeorah, FPSN, FIMC, KSC – Deputy President, PSN
- Pharm. Israel Adebayo – Founder/CEO, Future Pharmacy Initiatives
- Cynthia Agbor – Journalist and Founder, In a Man’s World Show
Each speaker brought unique perspectives, sparking important discussions about ethical challenges in pharmacy practice, policy gaps, and the evolving role of pharmacists in Nigeria’s healthcare system.
Key Highlights from the Discussion
1. Upholding Professional Ethics in Pharmacy
Dr. Udeorah emphasized the importance of ethical responsibility in pharmacy practice, highlighting cases where ethical breaches have led to serious consequences for both pharmacists and patients. He stressed that continuous professional development and adherence to the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) code of ethics are essential to maintaining public trust.
2. Ethical Dilemmas in Pharmacy Practice
Angela Kanu shed light on common ethical dilemmas pharmacists face, such as:
- The conflict between business interests and patient welfare
- Ethical concerns surrounding drug pricing and accessibility
- The pressure to dispense without proper prescriptions
She advocated for stronger ethical training and regulatory enforcement to guide pharmacists in navigating these challenges.
3. The Future of Pharmacy in Nigeria
Pharm. Israel Adebayo provided a forward-looking perspective, discussing how technological advancements and innovation are reshaping pharmacy practice. He encouraged young pharmacists to embrace digital tools, automation, and telepharmacy while maintaining ethical standards.
4. Ethics, Media, and Public Perception
Cynthia Agbor brought an outsider’s perspective as a journalist, discussing how pharmacists are portrayed in the media. She highlighted the role of public accountability and the need for pharmacists to engage in transparent communication to counter misinformation and maintain credibility.
Participant Engagement and Key Takeaways
The interactive session saw strong engagement from participants, with thought-provoking questions. Panelists provided practical insights, reinforcing the need for strong ethical leadership, regulatory compliance, and patient-centered care.
Conclusion
This webinar underscored the critical role of ethics in pharmacy practice and the urgent need for continuous dialogue, education, and policy refinement. As Nigeria’s healthcare landscape evolves, pharmacists must remain guardians of professional integrity while embracing innovation to enhance patient care. We extend our gratitude to our panelists, participants, and everyone who contributed to making this webinar a success. Stay tuned for future discussions as we continue to explore key ethical and professional issues in the pharmaceutical sector!